# Fifa expresses ‘gratitude’ for his exceptional commitment and services
FIFA – the world football governing body has thanked Malaysia’s newly elected King – Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah – for great contributions to the sport in the world.
Al-Sultan Abdullah, who has been a Fifa council member since 2015 has resigned effective on January 24, 2019, in a letter dated February 8.
In a letter signed by Fifa president Gianni Infantino and secretary general Fatma Samoura, the football federation expressed its “gratitude” to Al-Sultan Abdullah for his services to world football.
“Thank you very much for your letter dated February 8, 2019, informing us about your resignation as Fifa Council member effective on January 24, 2019, which has caught our full attention.
“We cannot find the words to express to you. On behalf of Fifa and the international football community, our gratitude for your exceptional commitment and all the projects you have carried out in the various Fifa Committees since 1994, as there have been so many.
“You made a telling contribution to the development of football and to the promotion of our sport and its values around the world.
“We would like to thank you for this exceptional and invaluable service to Fifa and extend our deepest recognition for all your efforts to promote football, protect its integrity, bring the game to all and build a stronger institution in your country, in your region, and in the world.
“There is no doubt that we will miss you, not only for your experience, knowledge, and expertise but above all the person. We sincerely hope that our friendship and an excellent relationship will continue in the future.”
Fifa is also hoping that Fifa and Al-Sultan Abdullah will “look forward” to seeing each other again soon.
Al-Sultan Abdullah’s was the FA of Malaysia (FAM) president from 2014 to 2017. RIZAL ABDULLAH
